Helmy accepts chief of staff post

George Helmy, a top advisor to U.S. Senator Cory Booker, will be Gov. Phil Murphy’s new chief of staff.

Helmy accepted Murphy’s offer and will begin soon, two sources with knowledge of the governor’s plans confirmed.

Murphy’s first chief of staff, Peter Cammarano, stepped down earlier this month.  Kathleen Frangione, the governor’s top policy advisor, is serving as acting chief of staff.

Helmy worked for U.S. Senator Frank Lautenberg before becoming Booker’s deputy chief of staff in the U.S Senate in 2014 and his state director in 2016.  He has relationships with legislator and county chairs and is viewed as a strong manager.

An announcement is expected tomorrow.

The New Jersey Globe first reported that Helmy was a contender for the post on January 10.  POLITICO reported yesterday that Helmy was offered the job.